Sarcoptes scabiei

Female. in phase-contrast microscopy.Sarcoptes scabiei is recognized by the characteristic oval, ventrally flattened,
and dorsally convex tortoise-like body, stout dorsal setae, numerous cuticular spines, and
transversely ridged cuticular striations. Females have suckers on legs 1 and 2. The mite
is the agent of scabies in humans and sarcoptic mange in nearly 47 hosts from 7 orders of
mammals. Biological evidence indicates that there are physiological differences among
scabies mites from different hosts and that a considerable degree of host specificity has
arisen among populations of this parasite.

Male in phase-contrast microscopy.
Males have suckers on legs 1, 2 and 4. Sarcoptes scabiei burrows into the epidemis
of its host forming long tunnels in which the life cycle is completed.

Dog with severe sarcoptic mange lesions.
The infestation usually begins in areas of minimal hair growth, such as the muzzle, around
the eyes, and on the elbows; the lesions consist of follicular papules, areas of erythema,
crusts of dried serum and blood, and excoriations from scratching to relieve the intense
pruritus.

Characteristic lesions of bovine sarcoptic mange.
On cattle Sarcoptes scabiei is found more frequently on the sparsely-haired parts
of the body such as the inner surface of the thighs, under side of neck and brisket, and
around the root of the tail.

Ear's rabbit showing severe sarcoptic mange lesions.
This mite is common in some rabbit colonies but is unlikely to be encountered in the
laboratory except in stocks obtained from suppliers which do not have effective sanitation
and parasite control programs. Lesions occur first on the head, ears, and legs and then
become generalized.

Muzzle's rabbit showing sarcoptic mange lesions.
On rabbits Sarcoptes scabiei is found more frequently on the sparsely-haired parts
of the body such as the face, muzzle, ears, and legs.

Sarcoptic mange infestation in pig.
Nowadays sarcoptic mange in pigs has been reported in all major swine producing countries
and is prevalent in Brazilian swine herds. Lesions, or scabs, on the animals may start on
any part of the body, but usually appear first on the head, around the eyes, nose, or
ears; lesions may progress to hyperkeratosis and exfoliation of epidermal debris.